Discovery of gene variant for cleft lip

About 20 percent of isolated cleft lip, one of the world's most common birth defects, may be due to a one-letter difference in the DNA sequence of a gene involved in facial development, researchers supported by the National Institutes of Health report. The scientists say the discovery, published online today in the journal Nature Genetics, could lead to DNA tests to help couples better gauge their risk of having a child with an isolated cleft lip. They also note that the gene variation provides a valuable clue to the complex developmental puzzle of cleft lip. Coupled with other recent gene discoveries and alterations, the scientists say they now can account for about 30 percent of isolated cleft lip. A generation ago, they had yet to identify a single gene alteration. "This finding will improve our ability to explore the... [read full story]